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Old-Fashioned Creamy Stovetop Rice Pudding

A close-up of creamy rice pudding in a white bowl, generously sprinkled with cinnamon.

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Make the creamiest, old-fashioned rice pudding right on your stovetop. This simple recipe delivers ultimate comfort with just a few classic ingredients.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup short-grain white rice (Arborio works well for creaminess)
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for topping)

Instructions

  1. Combine the rice and milk in a heavy-bottomed saucepan. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the rice to begin soaking.
  2. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
  3. Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring every 5 to 7 minutes, for 40 to 50 minutes. The pudding is ready when the rice is tender and the mixture has thickened to a creamy consistency. You want it thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
  4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the sugar and vanilla extract until fully dissolved. The pudding will thicken slightly more as it cools.
  5. Serve the rice pudding warm, or transfer it to a bowl, cover the surface directly with plastic wrap to prevent a skin from forming, and chill completely for a cold dessert. Sprinkle with extra cinnamon before serving.

Notes

  • For extra richness, substitute 1/2 cup of the milk with heavy cream.
  • If the pudding becomes too thick upon cooling, stir in a splash of milk until you reach your desired texture.
  • This recipe is a great base; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of raisins during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

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